10 Ways to be proud you are not a fashion victim

Be a fashion leader Create your own fashion by altering what's in your wardrobe. Recycle and renew: remove the sleeves, replace the collar with velvet, shorten the jacket and voila, you have a stunning top!

Flaunt your own signature item Hats or strange buttons. Glasses are mine – I have an impressive collection of different styles and a reputation for cool glasses. I could be wearing an item of clothing from a major fashion house but my friends wouldn't notice – they'd be looking for my new specs.

Know what looks good on you and wear it I kept wearing leggings/tights even when they weren't as fashionable as they now are because they suit my figure. I'm afraid I may always have to wear them.

Make your own colour statement I love baby pink but it makes me look pale. I can wear vibrant pinks and deep pinks. Some people look best with gold jewellery, some with silver – seldom both. Fortunately, diamonds look good on everybody.

Subscribe to the "voluntary simplicity" movement A few classic items worn – repeatedly – with élan. Simplicity doesn't mean "cheap" so if you're using a black jacket as a staple, make it a good brand and make sure it hugs your body in an alluring way.

Become a "victim" of something else more important It could be something 'green' and good for our planet or something relaxing and rejuvenating for you like going to the spa regularly.

Wear blue jeans They never go out of fashion. And they may keep you slim – when yours get too tight, it's time to watch what you eat.

Like the trend towards fusion food, think fusion fashion A luminescent Indian silk over fine Moroccan linen with Turkish silver and Canadian cowgirl boots. Shop with a global perspective, mix and match! Isn't that what Dubai is
all about?

Wear fabulous lingerie Your little secret will put a sparkle in your eyes!

Really do not care about what people think when they first see you Be your unforgettable signature self. And don't dress to impress them. Life is a costume event – what role are you playing today? Lights, camera and… action! However, leave your own impression!

– As told to Hina Navin, a Dubai-based freelancer